How Does Workers’ Compensation Work?
If you have been injured while on the job, you may have been advised to seek worker’s compensation or heard the term thrown around. What exactly is this system, how does it work, and what benefit can it provide to you? The worker’s compensation program was created in order to help employees that were injured while on the job by providing financial assistance and security to them. Basically, the employer or the employer’s insurance company covers all medical costs, as well as potentially compensate for lost wages, while the injured person is recovering.
All employees have a right to seek worker’s compensation if they sustain an injury at work, but it is important to understand the procedures and how to best go through this process. The first step, which should be done as soon as possible after the injury is sustained, is to inform the employer of the injury. Legally, a person has 30 days to report an injury, but the sooner the better. Your employer will then inform you which doctor you should see, as they will want to pick someone that is in network for their insurance. Sometimes, you will have to call the insurance company to report the injury, however most of the time this will be handled by the employer.
Within a day of the injury, the insurance company will then call you to explain the process and your rights. Within a few business days, a formal report and other paperwork will follow. By law, an employer must provide worker’s compensation within 7 business days. If you are unable to work and are seeking short or long term disability, lost wages may be administered as well up to at least most of one’s normal pay.
If your employer is unwilling to provide worker’s compensation or is trying to get out of it, you may have grounds for a worker’s compensation lawsuit. As an injured employee, you have a right to these payments and you should always work with a skilled attorney to help you through this process. We at the Franco Law Firm would be happy to fight for and with you to see you receive the compensation that you deserve. To schedule a free consultation with us today, please call us at (813) 872-0929.
